Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s something about a bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug, especially when it’s a copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. I remember the first time I tried the original at the restaurant; it was a chilly Tuesday, and my daughter and I were seeking comfort after a long day. The creamy broth, the tender chicken, and those soft, pillowy gnocchi won us over instantly. But driving to the restaurant every time a craving hit? Not practical. So, I set out to create a homemade version that captures that same magic, right in my own kitchen. This recipe is the happy result—a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying soup that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s become a staple in our home, especially during busy weeknights or when we need a little extra coziness. And the best part? You can make it with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Let’s get cooking.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ingredients

This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Smart Substitutions:

• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
• Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green.
• Gluten-free gnocchi works perfectly if you’re avoiding gluten.
• No fresh herbs? Double the dried thyme and parsley.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

This recipe is about 30% faster than waiting for a table at the restaurant!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a straightforward process that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.

1. 
   

   Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

   
   
2. 
   

   Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot—cook in batches if needed for even browning.

   
   
3. 
   

   Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

   
   
4. 
   

   Add Gnocchi and Spinach: Stir in the gnocchi and fresh spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and floating to the top. The spinach will wilt quickly into the soup.

   
   
5. 
   

   Creamy Finish: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, and grated Parmesan cheese. Heat through without boiling to maintain a smooth, creamy texture. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

   
   

If you love the simplicity of this method, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Keto Chicken Cream Cheese Soup for another easy, creamy option.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Nutritional Information

One serving (about 1½ cups) provides approximately:

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 20g

This soup is a good source of vitamin A from the carrots and spinach, and protein from the chicken, making it a balanced meal.

Equipment Needed for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Restaurant Quality at Home: This recipe captures the rich, creamy taste of the original without leaving your house.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the soft gnocchi and tender chicken.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to your dietary needs or ingredient preferences.
• Comfort in a Bowl: It’s the ultimate cozy meal for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up.

Healthier Alternatives for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Lighter Cream Base: Use 2 cups of whole milk instead of heavy cream and milk for a reduced-fat version.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular gnocchi for gluten-free potato gnocchi.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and milk with unsweetened almond or cashew milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini or mushrooms for more fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serve this soup hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For a special touch, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dash of red pepper flakes. This soup pairs wonderfully with our Easy Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup if you’re hosting a soup-themed dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Add gnocchi only in the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Boiling After Adding Cream: High heat can cause the dairy to curdle. Always heat the creamy soup on low.
• Skipping Veggie Sauté: Taking the time to soften the onions, carrots, and celery builds a deeper flavor base.
• Underseasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end, as the broth and Parmesan contribute saltiness.

Storing Tips for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, as it can separate upon thawing. For a freezer-friendly gnocchi soup, try our Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, which holds up better in the freezer.

Conclusion for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the comfort of restaurant dining right to your table. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi, it’s a meal that feels special yet is simple enough for any night of the week. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine. If you’re looking for more creamy, comforting soups, check out our Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup or our Hearty White Lasagna Soup for more inspiration. Let me know how your soup turns out in the comments, and don’t forget to share your photos with @Stacksipsnack on Pinterest

FAQs about Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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